The evening of 8th May, as soon as we came to know about the white “fumata”, we left our house and since there were no buses plying, we had no choice but to run as fast as our legs could carry us to get to St. Peter’s Square. It seemed like a marathon race because a huge number of people, young and not so young, all were racing towards the same place for the same purpose. On reaching the square after going through all the protocols, we tried to squeeze ourselves somewhere so as to be able to get a decent view.
What an impact to behold the square at this historic moment! Thousands and thousands of people, waiting patiently to express their joy for this most wanted figure at this juncture. All eyes were glued to the central balcony. The clock was ticking, our hearts holding on to the suspense in the air, and our ears ready to capture every word. All this charged atmosphere suddenly struck a spark when, from the central loggia of Saint Peter’s Basilica, Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti pronounced the formula “Habemus Papam,” proclaiming to the city of Rome and to the whole world the news of the election of Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost as Pope Leo XIV. What followed was a long and loud applause of joy.
The first appearance of Pope Leo XIV was accompanied with endless cheers and joyful claps, that spoke stronger than words. “Peace be with all of you!” were the first words of Pope Leo XIV. Practically after every statement that the new Pontiff made, the people confirmed and sealed his wishes and desires with an applause difficult to forget.
While being there amongst the thousands, I felt like a drop in the ocean, but yet, one with the world, where people of every race and language had gathered to witness this moment. As the Pope kept speaking, I felt as though the Church was being born again, especially through his initial greeting of peace launched into the square with a firm voice. His few words in Spanish brought added joy to the people of Peru and other Spanish-speaking countries. He invoked Mother Mary and exhorted her to help us attain peace and to be close to the poor. Everyone that evening walked back home with a heart full of joy and gratitude for the gift of Pope Leo XIV to the Church and to the world.
As Vedruna daughters of the Church and of Saint Joaquina, let us be open to this new era of hope. May we, together with the Church, continue the legacy that Pope Francis left to us beautifully expressed on different occasions, on synodality, caring for the planet, inter-religious dialogue and love for the most vulnerable. Like him, let us be convinced that the Church is for all. Let us also commit ourselves to be supporters of Pope Leo XIV in his new mission and all that he has in his heart, especially to be builders of peace in a worn torn world. May God bless our shepherd, Pope Leo XIV, and grant him all the graces to journey on in this Jubilee year and more.
Sr. Maggie D’Costa, ccv
